GABA Treatment in Subjects With Type 1 Diabetes

our results indicate that alfa‐cells can be regenerated and used to regenerate functional beta‐like cells in vivo in type 1 diabetes models. Aiming to eventually apply these findings to type 1 diabetic patients, we initiated multiple screens seeking for compounds inducing alfa‐to‐beta‐cell conversion. Using the mouse as a model, we thereby found that GABA (gamma‐aminobutyric acid) could promote a cycle of conversion of alfa‐cells into functional beta‐like cells,GABA being considered as a non‐harmful food supplement, one could envision a trial in type 1 diabetic patients. Indeed, a putative cure for type 1 diabetes may include halting the autoimmune insult to the pancreatic beta‐cells and restoring insulin secretion by expanding beta‐cell mass by beta‐cell‐regeneration and/or preventing beta‐cell apoptosis induced by cytokines. Immunosuppression initiated at the onset of type 1 diabetes has been shown to preserve beta‐cell function, but is associated with significant toxicities. Other studies using nicotinamide and parenteral insulin have failed to prevent development of type 1 diabetes. Objectives Primary objective: To investigate the effect and safety of the dietary supplement GABA provided at a dose of 6 g daily compared to placebo for 12 weeks on change in beta‐cell function in patients with C‐peptide negative type 1 diabetes as an adjunctive therapy to insulin treatment. Population A total of 30 patients with C‐peptide negative type 1 diabetes, randomised 2:1 GABA: Placebo. Intervention After randomisation patients are treated with the dietary supplement GABA or matching placebo, titrated to 3 x 2g, or maximum tolerated dose, for 12 weeks. The insulin dose is reduced if needed according to Self‐monitored blood glucose (SMBG) and hypoglycaemic episodes.